Narratives on fresh markets around the world, with a focus on cultures, traditions and food.

Behind the Smiling Faces of Siem Reap

Two years ago, finally we visited Siem Reap, Cambodia. The Ankor Wat temples with gigantic stone edifices and intricate temple carvings left us spellbound! But, it was the hustle bustle of tourists and locals, mingling in the marketplace, after dusk, that painted another picture. Of ‘real’ stories of Cambodian life.

It was the hope, struggle and cultural revival of Cambodians determined to rise back from the ruins…that left a mark in our hearts.

Entrance at Ankor temple complex

‘Let me take you to the Old Market, Phsar Chas’ suggested our Tuk-tuk driver, on return from Banteay Sri complex. ‘You can get a good, cheap massage for your tired legs’ he added.

Phsar means market, in Khmer. Sounded similar to bazar, isnt’ it? As Cambodian empire spread over South East Asia, trade and cultural ties with its neighbours influenced its language, food and traditions. Phsar, generally a semi covered market area, was a traditional shopping place for women. Wicker baskets in hand, Krama, a Khmer chequered scarf bundled on their head or tied around the waist, they set off on a market spree.

Psar Chas, Old Market, is located between the Sivutha Boulevard and Pokhomber Avenue, next to the main river. It is open from dawn to dusk. The river end catered to the tourist selling mostly souvenir and craft items. It had a quiet, subdued atmosphere. Soft spoken women pleading tourists to buy. Ankle length sarong, modest hairdo, eating street food in plastic containers provided a peek into life.

The other side catered to locals. What a dramatic difference! Early morning electric atmosphere, haggling of prices, butchering fish, squids or meat and towing vegetable laden push carts would drown any visitor. Strange looking spiky dragon fruit, giant jackfruit, plump fleshy lychee fight for space between fried Tarantulas, frog legs in vinegar and snails in large basins. Ah! stalls laden with fresh condiments and spices, essentials of Khmer food were probably an Indian influence.

Pulses, grains and spices

Pubs and hotels, dotted the area. Homes, once to nobles and officials, changed to cheap accomodation for the tourists. Tourism is key to economic growth.

Boulevard shops at Psar Chas, Siem Reap

Alighting from the Tuk-tuk, I took a moment to admire the historic building painted in white. Decorated with lattice windows and high archway, it was a blend of French and Siamese architecture.

Today, many workshops and craft schools run by NGO’s and organisations help lift the people, revive Art.

Young and old mothers, and children seemed part of the market community. Like in a ‘kampung’ , they shared daily stories. The market provided a perfect learning space for children, after school, to practice scant knowledge of English or maybe earn a little pocket-money.

‘Would you like paper lanterns? suggested a lady. Another rose from her stool, putting away her knitting yarn to show me Cambodian styled embroidered handbags with wooden handles. A girl, with a gentle smile, took my finger, leading me to her mother’s shop.

Masks, waist bands, hair pins and variety of Cambodian cultural souvenirs make Phasr Chas a ‘must’ on the tourist itinerary.

Head gear, costumes and masks for cultural performances

Conversing with a part-time teacher, who comes every weekend to shop for groceries and rice gave me a deeper understanding of cultural philosophy. She manages her friend’s shop, allowing her precious time to complete household chores.

The teacher guided me to the neighbouring street. Was there more to discover?

Evening classes for young children were being conducted by local and foreign volunteers. They bring English books, maps and puzzles to engage young minds, breathing better life and ambience into their suvival. A healthy way of keeping them away from drugs and street fights and crowded tourist markets.

Just so much behind those smiling Cambodian faces!

Evening English classes on the street, Cambodia

Street school, Cambodia

What did you like about this narrative? Do you have a story about your travel to Siem Reap?

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About Veena S.

'Travel broadens the mind.' It's been a wonderful journey through the past few years, living and travelling to many countries. Certainly there were few eye openers, at other times just a comparison on cultures and food and cuisines. My blog is my learning journey to capture and re live these moments, share photographs and use technology.
Come ...see the world with me.

interesting to note the similarities with the indian culture. reading your blog allows us to see the world ( even if its through your eyes ). hats off to the minute details noticed and interconnected to daily life. very observant of you.

It is truly a spectacular account Veena. Always wanted to see the Ankor Wat Temple. The most impressive piece of info is the evening school for the kids in the market place.. Your account has definitely stir my travel palette and now Cambodia should be my vacation spot soon.

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